Handle with care
COURSE TAKES OFF WITH SNAKES ON THE MOVE
SNAKE sightings are increasing in Tasmanian backyards, and it seems more people are keen to know how to relocate them, says a local expert.
So much so that a venomous snake handling course offered by Reptile Rescue has been booked out.
Experienced snake handler and Reptile Rescue ranger Justin Kneebone said snakes are more visible as more bushland is turned into new subdivisions. He said the increased urban sprawl was encroaching on the snakes’ backyards and the rescue service had grown as a result.
From November each year, Reptile Rescue receives anywhere between 50 and 70 calls a day.
Mr Kneebone said this was a huge increase from when Reptile Rescue started in 2002.
“A lot has changed since then, including people’s attitudes and a new herpetology permit if you want to keep them as pets,” he said.
Introduced in June, the permits are available for anyone who wants to keep Tasmanian native reptiles and amphibians as pets and is valid for one year.
There has been overwhelming demand for Reptile Rescue’s venomous snake handling course and it will run an extra course for 2020 for those who missed out on the November 28 event.
He said a basic venomous snake handling course is the first step for anyone wanting to not only catch and release problem snakes, but if you want to keep venomous snakes in captivity at home.
“People now have to accomplish at least a basic handling course to receive endorsement and in turn your permit,” he said.
“This is a good safety move for people who don’t have a reptile background.
“The course also helps address phobias and teaches about snake behaviour.”
He said snake handling was becoming more popular, with many people wanting to rescue and relocate snakes instead of killing them.
Mr Kneebone said snakes were not aggressive by nature, but can become agitated if interfered with.
“They do require respect — be nice and calm if you happen to come across one,” he said. “Don’t go near it, leave them alone as most of the time they are just moving through an area.”
The public can call Reptile Rescue on 0499 116 690.
THEY DO REQUIRE RESPECT — BE NICE AND CALM IF YOU HAPPEN TO COME ACROSS ONE. DON’T GO NEAR IT, LEAVE THEM ALONE
SNAKE EXPERT JUSTIN KNEEBONE